"I'm not going to comment on commentary. I will, though, look at the broader picture in terms of people who are criticised because of their gender. I have never been someone who would criticise someone because of their gender. I hope no-one would ever criticise me as a result of my gender. And I certainly would never argue that if I'm doing the wrong thing or I'm receiving criticism, it's because of my gender. You criticise me because of the job I'm doing," Senator Cash told the National Press Club in a speech to mark International Women's Day.

Ms Credlin wrote a piece for The Australian on Tuesday in which she said she attracted disapproval because of her gender.

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"I also believe that if you work hard you should be able to get ahead and that your gender should be irrelevant. I know I am not the first woman to face offensive and false rumours about the nature of her professional relationships but, sadly, I doubt I will be the last," Ms Credlin wrote.

"I only hope this doesn't put off smart women from joining the political fray because without our voices out there, it is had to influence debate."